FOUR people have died from carbon monoxide poisoning after missing a Christmas Day gathering, prompting concerned family members to call police.
Authorities found something distressing at a residence in Wakefield, New Hampshire, on Wednesday afternoon following a welfare check prompted by concerned family members.
When Wakefield police arrived at the home, they found the bodies of four adults.
Sean Toomey, the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal, told ABC affiliate WMUR-TV that the victims were two older adults and two young adults.
However, Toomey stressed all four were over the age of 18.
“It’s a terribly tragic event,” the fire marshal said.
“It comes in a year we’ve had a tough year in general for carbon monoxide deaths and fire fatalities in our state.
“I really hope to make it through the holidays without another death.”
The names of the victims have not been released, pending notification of their next of kin.
Toomey said the deaths appeared accidental but stressed the importance of having functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
The fire safety division stressed the significance of functional carbon monoxide detectors in residences: “State Fire Marshal Toomey wants to reiterate the necessity of having operational carbon monoxide alarms at home.”
“In the event of an alarm activation, residents should immediately exit their homes and call 9-1-1.
For inquiries regarding home fire and carbon monoxide safety, individuals are encouraged to reach out to their local fire department or the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas known as the “invisible killer” that can be produced by fuel-burning appliances or fallen soot in a fireplace, according to the US Fire Administration.
“CO poisoning can occur when a fuel-burning appliance or machine, such as a furnace, heater or generator, is not working or vented properly,” the administration said.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are described as flu-like and commonly include headaches, dizziness, weakness, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.
Carbon monoxide poisoning kills more than 400 Americans yearly and sends more than 100,000 to the emergency room, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
“Install battery-operated or battery backup CO detectors near every sleeping area in your home,” the CDC recommends.
“Check CO detector batteries when you change them on your clocks each spring and fall to be sure they are functioning properly.
“Replace your CO detector following the manufacturer’s instructions or every 5 years.
“Set a reminder on your smartphone or other device calendar when you purchase and install the detector.”
